In a tragic and shocking incident, 43 suspected oil thieves lost their lives in the Okirika Local Government Area of Rivers State, reportedly succumbing to deadly fumes from a petroleum product. This devastating event unfolded when a vessel docked at a jetty to load fuel for export, only for chaos to ensue as over 200 youths from nearby communities rushed to the same location to illegally tap into the petroleum supply.
Witnesses described a scene of horror as the air became thick with a noxious odor, leading many to collapse. Some victims fell into the river, while others who managed to flee were left struggling with severe respiratory issues and required urgent medical attention. Local sources confirmed that 37 bodies have been identified as residents of Okirika, with six still unaccounted for amidst the ongoing recovery efforts.
The Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC-Nigeria) shed light on the incident, stating that the victims inhaled what is locally referred to as “Indorama fuel.” Executive Director Dr. Fyneface Dumnamene Fyneface reported that the tragedy occurred around midnight on September 3, 2026, as a high-pressure loading operation took place simultaneously at an illegal tapping site.
Dr. Fyneface explained how a pipe was connected to a pipeline meant for transporting fuel from Indorama Eleme Petrochemical, and as the vessel loaded the product, the individuals at the illegal site inhaled the hazardous fumes, leading to catastrophic results. He noted that while 37 lives were tragically lost, many individuals remain missing, and some bodies have been seen floating in the river, yet to be recovered.
In light of this appalling event, Fyneface urged the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) to conduct a Joint Investigation Visit (JIV) to the site. He also urged the companies owning the vandalized facilities to enhance security measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
“The Advocacy Centre vehemently condemns this act of sabotage by the youths and warns of the inherent dangers associated with oil and gas infrastructure,” Fyneface remarked. He also called on the government to explore alternative livelihood opportunities for the youth, including the development of modular refineries and the legalization of artisanal refining. By implementing initiatives like the proposed Presidential Artisanal Crude Oil Refining Development Initiative (PACORDI) and the Niger Delta Industrial Park, he believes we can pave the way for safer, sustainable options for those affected.
The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Agabe Blessing Karbalo, confirmed the incident, stating that investigations are underway to ascertain the full extent of the casualties and the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.